Warm up with Hot Fudge at Brown Cow in Forest Park

I went into Brown Cow Ice Cream at 7347 W. Madison in Forest Park recently for a quick photo op of their t-shirts, and handpacked containers. And I found a man having this sundae for lunch. I couldn't help think that must be a most liberating feeling: Skip lunch, eat dessert, use your calories up for a splurge to warm your heart even on a chilly day.

Last year, our family gave Brown Cow gift certificates to my daughter's main teacher and bus driver. That felt great - I supported a local family and business. Both teacher and bus driver loved it.

Her principal and specials teachers got individually wrapped shortbread cookies. It was fun, but I'm not sure we will have time for a homebaked little thank you this year. I've even heard rumblings that some teachers wont touch a homemade treat. (previous bakery owner's are an exception I'm sure)

Lucky for me, I had a brainstorm. I'm going to replace that homebaked thank you with a pack of 11 kiddie scoops coupons. Brown Cow sells packs of 11 kids scoops coupons. When you buy 10 kids scoops at 21.70 you get your 11th free. Their idea of course is to have your child hand them out at Halloween and Valentines Day to other kids in their class.

I'm thinking, this is a fantastic simple small gesture that we can buy in abundance and give in addition to our thank you notes. It's perfect. And it warms my heart. If I want to do more, Brown Cow has gift certificates in all denominations.